Tortilla Press

Written by Lee Wyatt (last updated February 4, 2019)

Making your own homemade tortillas is a fairly simple prospect, as long as you have the correct piece of equipment. While commonly known as a "tortilladora" in Mexico, the tortilla press has got to be one of the easiest pieces of cooking equipment to use in the world. After all, all that you have to do is simply put a piece of dough between the plates and pressing down. But what about choosing one? What do you need to know in order to get the most out of these fantastic devices? The answers to these questions lie below.

  • Materials. Most tortilla presses are made from three different types of materials: cast iron, cast aluminum, or wood. While there is little difference in performance, each will have their own adherents. Typically the cast iron press will provide a more "authentic" look and taste to the tortilla, while the aluminum presses can produce similar results—with a little more work, since you have to press down harder to make your tortilla. Wooden presses typically look nicer, while being able to provide a larger tortilla. Wood presses are usually made from pine, which doesn't last very long, or they can use other types of wood like mesquite and oak.
  • Sizes. Depending on the type of tortilla press that you choose, you can end up with a tortilla that will be as small as six inches and as large as nine inches or more. While it may be true that you can make smaller tortillas by using smaller pieces of dough, you can only make a large tortilla if you have a large enough tortilla press.
  • Models. The standard type of tortilla press will only do one thing—make a single raw, uncooked tortilla. On average, this is exactly what is needed, particularly when you want a traditional style of tortilla. However, if you are looking for a quicker, more made-to-order tortilla, then go for an electric model that can press and cook the tortilla all at the same time.
  • Ease of care. Usually, when making tortillas and using a tortilla press all that you need to do is simply wipe everything down with a simple paper towel. Only when you begin using the electric models that cook the tortillas, do you need to do any regular and in-depth cleaning.

Author Bio

Lee Wyatt

Contributor of numerous Tips.Net articles, Lee Wyatt is quickly becoming a regular "Jack of all trades." He is currently an independent contractor specializing in writing and editing. Contact him today for all of your writing and editing needs! Click here to contact. ...

MORE FROM LEE

Repairing Laminate Flooring

Laminate floors are a great way to provide the look and feel of natural wood floors, without the expense or difficulties ...

Discover More

Safely Towing a Car

Who hasn't had their car break down at some point in time? Sure you can always hire a tow truck to come and help you out, ...

Discover More

Repairing a Door Latch

There is more to door latches than simply helping your door look better. In fact, if your door latch isn't in good ...

Discover More
More Cooking Tips

Caring for Cast Iron Cookware

Whether you are planning on cooking outdoors or in, cast iron cookware can be one of the best ways to go. Long lasting, ...

Discover More

Cleaning Silverstone Cookware

Since many people these days own some form of nonstick cookware, it is important to know how to clean these pots and pans ...

Discover More

Ceramic Cookware

Easy to clean and dishwasher safe, ceramic cookware comes in a variety of colors. Many cooks love ceramic cookware ...

Discover More
Comments

If you would like to add an image to your comment (not an avatar, but an image to help in making the point of your comment), include the characters [{fig}] (all 7 characters, in the sequence shown) in your comment text. You’ll be prompted to upload your image when you submit the comment. Maximum image size is 6Mpixels. Images larger than 600px wide or 1000px tall will be reduced. Up to three images may be included in a comment. All images are subject to review. Commenting privileges may be curtailed if inappropriate images are posted.

What is five minus 3?

There are currently no comments for this tip. (Be the first to leave your comment—just use the simple form above!)